Thank You for 2023
And what to expect in 2024
Just banging this out on my phone before I get back to some more movies, but I wanted to thank you, my readers, for a great 2023. I had some modest goals for this year, and you have helped me exceed them.
If I counted correctly, I published 181 pieces on Substack this year, which is an awful lot, especially when you consider I wrote a whole book in addition to that (with much less crossover than I expected). I saw fewer movies than a lot of my colleagues, but still a decent number, and I expect it will be even more in 2024. And I’ll even do better about marking them on Letterboxd.
Professionally, this was a year of growth. Being a part of both CherryPicks and the International Film Society Critics has been a significant level up for me. I'm excited about some growth in my TikTok channel and some of the relationships I've made across various social media platforms. I love talking about my opinions about movies and television shows, but talking WITH people is my favorite, so thanks to those of you who take the time to talk with me.
The thing I am most excited about in 2024 is definitely The Ted Lasso Relationship Guide being published. I am more behind on edits than I would like, but even so, finishing the manuscript last year was a massive accomplishment, and I can't wait for you to read it. I think there's some good stuff in there, and I hope that it will be an interesting and hopeful read.
I will also be adding a rating system to my reviews. My daughter is part of a SpongeBob SquarePants podcast where they use a 7-star scale. I was a skeptic at first, but I kind of love it. There’s a real middle, and then levels between the best and worst. So watch for those being added to reviews going forward.
Again, I love that I get to do this. I could do it without readers, but I probably wouldn’t, so thank you for choosing to read. I’m so grateful for everyone who chooses to open up an email or hop on the app. It truly means a lot.
I hope you have had a lovely 2023, and if not, I hope 2024 is better. Take care of yourself and the people in your orbit. We just get this one life. Make it a good one. Much love!